SIBU: Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) recently organised a series of stakeholder engagement sessions in Sibu Division to strengthen understanding and cooperation surrounding the proposed establishment of several Totally Protected Areas (TPAs) in Sarawak.
The engagements, held from May 5 to 6, involved government agencies, industry representatives and community leaders to discuss matters related to the proposed gazettement of the protected areas.
On May 5, discussions were held on the proposed Baleh National Park Extensions I and II, attended by representatives from Jaya Tiasa Sdn Bhd, Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) and the Forest Department Sarawak (FDS).
This was followed by an engagement session on May 6 for the proposed Bukit Sebangkoi Nature Reserve, involving the Sarikei Resident Office, Sarikei District Office, Sarikei District Council, Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), FDS and local community leaders.
Another session on the same day focused on the proposed Tun Jugah Empurau National Park and Nature Reserve, attended by Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Leonard Linggi Jugah, the Kapit Resident Office, Bukit Mabong District Office and local community leaders.
SFC said the engagement sessions were organised to provide advance notification to stakeholders on the intention to designate the proposed areas as TPAs prior to the commencement of the constitution process.
“The sessions also aimed to inform stakeholders on the requirement to submit any claims involving interests or activities within the proposed areas within 60 days from the publication date of the gazettement notice,” it said.
SFC also said the engagements served as a platform to listen to and address concerns from stakeholders, particularly regarding permitted and restricted activities following gazettement.
“Multiple engagement sessions are organised for each proposed TPA to ensure stakeholders have a comprehensive understanding of the process, thereby minimising the potential for misunderstandings or disputes after gazettement,” it said.
SFC also expressed appreciation to all participating stakeholders for their cooperation, constructive feedback and continued support towards conserving Sarawak’s natural heritage.
